I’m not guilty of libel – trader
BUSINESSMAN James Philip Tiongko entered a plea of “not guilty” on libel charges filed against him by Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama.
Tiongko was arraigned yesterday before Regional Trial Court Judge Generosa Labra of Branch 23.
The libel charge arose from statements Tiongko made during the campaign period of the 2010 election.
In an interview after the proceedings, defense lawyer Edgar Gica said Tiongko had no intention to destroy the reputation of Rama and was just “relaying” reports that Rama had been protecting illegal activities in Cebu City.
The court has scheduled a chamber conference on Sept. 11.
Last April 2010, Rama filed a libel complaint against Tiongko, whom he said caused him and his family “dishonor and contempt” with his allegations.
Tiongko accused Rama of coddling Crisostomo “Tata Negro” Llaguno, whom police said was a suspected drug pusher.
Llaguno, a candidate for Cebu City councilor in the May 2010 elections, was shot dead while campaigning in barangay Lorega, Cebu City.
Tiongco’s “defamatory” remarks were published in Sun.Star Cebu last April 22. In his counteraffidavit, Tiongco said the accusations against Rama did not come from him.
Tiongco, an opposition council candidate in the last May elections, pointed to Rep. Tomas Osmeña of Cebu City’s south district as the one who labeled Rama a “drug lord protector.”
The prosecutor’s office found probable cause of guilt and elevated the charge to the Regional Trial Court.
Tiongko posted bail of P10,000 for his temporary liberty pending resolution of the case. Reporter ADOR VINCENT S. MAYOL
